Recent Progress in Steel and Composite Structures includes papers presented at the XIIIth International Conference on Metal Structures (ICMS 2016, Zielona Gra, Poland, 15-17 June 2016). The contributions focus on the progress made in theoretical, numerical and experimental research, with special attention given to new concepts and algorithmic proc

Potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) are considered as promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their abundant potassium resources, cost-effectiveness, and comparable electrochemical performance to LIBs. However, the practical application of PIBs is hindered by the slow dynamics and large volume expansion of anode materials. Owing to their unique morphology, rich pores, abundant active sites, and tunable composition, metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived carbon and its composites have been widely studied and developed as PIB anodes. In this review, the basic configuration, performance evaluation indicators, and energy storage mechanisms of PIBs were first introduced, followed by a comprehensive summary of the research progress in MOF-derived carbon and its composites, especially the design strategies and different types of composites. Moreover, the advances of in situ characterization techniques to understand the electrochemical mechanism during potassiation/depotassiation were also highlighted, which is crucial for the directional optimization of the electrochemical performance of PIBs. Finally, the challenges and development prospects of MOF-derived carbon and its composites for PIBs are prospected. It is envisioned that this review will guide and inspire more research efforts toward advanced MOF-derived PIB anode materials in the future.

This volume examines the influences of technology and international trade policies on the troubled U.S. steel industry. Does leadership in technology guarantee competitive advantage in industrial markets? Or do the costs of production and the lack of investment capital offset technological gains for the domestic steel industry? Which international trade policies can help this industry, and which may be harming it? With these and other questions in view, The Competitive Status of the U.S. Steel Industry estimates global trends in steel trade, discusses patterns of production and consumption, and analyzes the possible effects of alternative governmental policies on this critically important industry.